Tiktok University: Breast Cancer 101

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

2-20-2026

Publication Title

Ann Surg Oncol

Keywords

breast cancer, cancer screening, conference abstract, content analysis, controlled study, dentist, dietitian, female, health care organization, health care personnel, human, incidence, major clinical study, misinformation, patient education, physician, physician assistant, social media, sonographer, treatment outcome, videorecording

Abstract

The incidence of breast cancer has been increasing and outcomes improve significantly when diagnosed at an early stage. Patient education and breast cancer screening are a focus of both physicians and health systems. TikTok is a social media application with over 1.5 billion monthly users that has emerged as a center for medical knowledge sharing where users share information via short informational videos directly to the general public. Little is known about the quality of medical advice provided on this app.The purpose of this study was to evaluate the quality and source of breast cancer information available on TikTok. METHODS: Four reviewers conducted a cross sectional content analysis of the search term #breastcancer on TikTok to assess videos available for viewing related to the topic that were narrated in English and had > 500 views. Each video was independently coded for uploader identity, video type, presence of recommendations, and their accuracy according to American Cancer Society guidelines. Descriptive statistics were calculated with Microsoft Excel. RESULTS: A total of 100 videos were analyzed, collectively amassing over 137 million views. Half were created by patients. Videos made by healthcare professionals included individuals with advanced degrees such as dentists, ultrasound technologists, naturopaths, PhDs, nutritionists, physician assistants, and medical doctors across multiple specialties. Forty-seven of the 100 videos provided recommendations or educational information, 29 of which were created by self-identified healthcare professionals. Of the 47 videos providing recommendations, 11 were significantly inaccurate, 9 of which were attributed to healthcare professionals. Videos containing inaccurate information received an average of 1.9 million views, compared with 1.5 million views for videos presenting accurate information. CONCLUSIONS: Breast cancer content on TikTok reaches millions of consumers. Patients, loved ones, and health professionals can garner community and financial benefit from popular videos and engagement from their content. The majority of misinformation about breast cancer on TikTok are from creators who present themselves as healthcare workers. Further research is needed to understand the extent of social media driven breast cancer misinformation and how it contributes to patient outcomes. Increased engagement in TikTok by responsible physicians and healthcare organizations may improve public education regarding diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer.

Volume

33

Issue

1

First Page

S285

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